... Read moreYou know that feeling when you discover a book series that just gets you? For me, that's definitely the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. I've seen some of you asking about new books to read, and trust me, if you haven't dived into Rick Riordan's world yet, you're in for an absolute treat! It's not just a collection of great fantasy books; it's a whole universe built on Greek mythology that feels incredibly alive.
What truly makes Percy Jackson stand out, in my opinion, is how refreshingly different Percy is from those epic, often flawless, heroes we read about in traditional Greek mythology. Think about Heracles or Odysseus – they're larger-than-life figures, almost god-like, with immense powers and often a sense of grandeur. But Percy? He's a modern-day teenager with ADHD and dyslexia, struggling with school and just trying to figure things out, even after he finds out he's the son of Poseidon! He makes mistakes, he's sarcastic, and he's incredibly relatable. This makes his adventures, like the quests in 'The Lightning Thief' and 'Sea of Monsters,' feel so much more grounded and thrilling. Unlike the ancient heroes who were often depicted as purely noble or wise, Percy shows us heroism through his courage in the face of overwhelming odds, his loyalty to friends, and his very human flaws. It's this blend of ancient myths with a very contemporary, imperfect hero that makes the series so captivating and one of my all-time favorite fantasy books. It really makes you ponder: is being a hero about being perfect, or about doing the right thing despite your imperfections?
If you've already devoured the Percy Jackson series and are now looking for more amazing reads that capture that same magic, I've got a few recommendations based on what I loved about these books. If you enjoy the blend of mythology with modern settings, I highly recommend exploring Rick Riordan's other series. After Percy Jackson, 'The Heroes of Olympus' is a must-read as it continues Percy's story and introduces new demigods! Then there's 'The Kane Chronicles' for Egyptian mythology, or 'Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard' for Norse. These are perfect for those who want to dive deeper into different pantheons and explore more of Riordan's incredible universe. For a similar adventure-fantasy vibe with a strong young protagonist outside of Riordan's universe, 'Fablehaven' by Brandon Mull or 'Artemis Fowl' by Eoin Colfer are fantastic choices. They both offer hidden magical worlds, clever heroes, and fast-paced plots.
Understanding the Greek gods and monsters through Percy's eyes is such a fun way to learn mythology without it ever feeling like a textbook. From encountering the Minotaur to learning about figures like Laestrygon, a formidable cyclops and indeed a lesser-known son of Poseidon, the series cleverly weaves in creatures and figures from ancient lore, making them accessible and engaging. It's more than just a fantasy; it's a journey that makes you feel like you're right there with Percy, Annabeth, and Grover every step of the way, making tough choices and battling formidable foes. Seriously, if you're searching for your next obsession or just craving a fantastic escape, pick up 'The Lightning Thief' – you won't regret immersing yourself in this incredible world!
Best series ever 🥰